Device for evaluating baseball players



Nov. 12, 1968 E. e. STRUM 3,410,482

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Ln TOYAL 1: L06 X g, A II mvcmnn M: r a YDIAL cu United States Patent Office 3,410,482 Patented Nov. 12, 1968 3,410,482 DEVICE FOR EVALUATING BASEBALL PLAYERS Elmer G. Strum, 3108 N. Twelve Oaks Drive,

' Peoria, Ill. 61604 Filed Oct. 18, 1965, Ser. No. 497,129 Claims. (Cl. 235-88) ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A device for use in the practical evaluation of the batting, base running, pitching and fielding ability of baseball players in accordance with a system based upon statistical analysis consists of a first circular member mounted on a central support, a second circular member mounted above the first member and rotatably movable with respect to the first member, and a third circular member mounted above the first and second members and rotatably movable with respect to the first and second members. By rotating or moving the second and third members relative to the first member for each play of a baseball game, the various values representative of a players skill as a batter, fielder, base runner or pitcher can be derived from the device and the players skill then evaluated on a more comprehensive basis than is now available.

This invention relates to a device for evaluating the ability of baseball players and more particularly to a device which permits a more accurate evaluation of the batting, base running, pitching, and fielding ability of baseball players.

Among the several objects of the invention may be noted the provision of a device for evaluating the ability of baseball players based upon a system which is more accurate and comprehensive than those used heretofore; the provision of such a device which permits an improved evaluation of the batting, base running, pitching and fielding ability of baseball players; the provision of a device of this character which gives an evaluation which takes into account the game situation at the time a particular play commences as well as other factors which measure or determine a players ability; the provision of a device of this type which produces an evaluation which when projected on a team basis can accurately determine the run scoring ability of a team, the run scoring ability of the opponent, and in turn the approximate team potential in games Won and lost; and the provision of such a device which is relatively inexpensive to construct and convenient to use. Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.

The invention accordingly comprises the construction hereinafter described, the scope of the invention being indicated in the following claims.

In the accompanying drawings, in which one of various possible embodiments of the invention is illustrated,

FIG. 1 is a plan view of the device of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the device with the front or top scale removed;

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the bottom scale;

FIG. 4 is a section taken on lines 4-4 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a section taken on lines 5-5 of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a portion of a form of scoring card which may be used with the device of the invention.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

As is well known and appreciated by baseball fans and students of the game of baseball, the yardsticks commonly employed to measure the playing ability of baseball players are not completely accurate since they fail to take into consideration various factors which have a definite bearing on a players ability. For example, one of the standard measures of a players batting or offensive ability is runs-batted-in (R.B.I.). However, this figure ignores completely the batters opportunities to drive in runs which obviously is an important factor in any appraisal of a batters offensive ability. Similarly, a standard measure of a pitchers ability is his earned run average (E.R.A.). However, here again, this figure as now calculated does not completely take into account the fielding ability of the pitchers teammates. Based upon a statistical analysis of over 10,000 major league baseball games, I have developed an evaluation system which takes into consideration all factors having a material influence on the determination of a players ability and which therefore permits a more accurate evaluation to be made of the batting, base running, pitching and fielding ability of baseball players. This is the system upon which the evaluation device of the present invention is based.

The system upon which the present invention is based involves breaking down the value of a run, which is given a unit value of 1.00, into component parts or fractions and assigning values to these component parts by taking into account the game situation at a given point during the course of a baseball game. For example, it is obvious that a base runner on first base has :a greater value when there are no outs than when there are two outs since there are greater opportunities to advance and score such a base runner in the one game situation than in the other. Similarly, the value of advancing a base runner from first base to second base is obviously greater when there is one out than when there are two outs since the opportunities to score the base runner are greater in the former game situation than in the latter. Likewise, scoring a runner from third base has greater value when it is accomplished with two out than when it is accomplished with one out since it involves what is commonly called clutch hitting, i.e., when the batter makes an out in a two-out situation, his team is retired without any further opportunity being available to score in that inning. The relative values of advancing base runners from one base to another and the relative values of base runners on any given base under the various game situations (i.e., taking into account the number of outs at a given point of play) according to my system, based upon the statistical analysis mentioned above, are set forth below in Tables I and II, respectively:

TABLE I.B REAKDOWN OF THE VALUE OF THE RUN (1.00

TABLE II.VALUE OF BASE RUNNER ON EACH BASE No One Two (0) Out (1) Out (2) Out Base runner on First Base 0. 09 0.06 0.03 Base runner on Second Base 0.27 18 0. 09 Base runner on Third Base 0. 54 0. 36 0. 18

It will be noted that the value of a base runner on a given base in Table II is a cumulative total of the values given in Table I for advancing to that base, i.e., a base runner on second base has a value of 0.27, 0.09 for going from home plate to first base plus 0.18 for advancing from first base to second base. It will also be noted that a greater value is ascribed to advancing from second base to third base than from first base to second base since the one obviously produces a greater opportunity to score than the other. The relative values accorded to base runners on the various bases and to the advancement of base runners according to the game situation are believed to be accurate on a statistical basis and permit an accurate evaluation of the accomplishments of batters, pitchers, fielders and base runners as described hereinafter. In utilizing these values in evaluating batting and pitching accomplishments, the evaluations are 'based on the mechanically perfect fielding and base running of the players involved in the play. By mechanically perfect fielding and base running is meant that a batter receives credit for advancement of every base runner one base for a single, two bases for a double and three bases for a triple plus credit for advancing himself to first base, second base or third base, respectively. This is on the theory that the batter should not be penalized for slow runners or given credit for fleet base runners. Where there is an actual advancement by a base runner of more than one base on a single or more than two bases on a double, the base runner, rather than the batter, is given credit for the extra base advancement in measuring his base running ability and the fielder involved is charged with a corresponding discredit for allowing the extra base advancement. Crediting the batter with the advancement of every base runner one base on a single, two bases for a double, etc. is applicable where the game situation involves no outs or one out. However, when there are two outs, the batter is credited with advancing every base runner two bases for a single on the theory that, with two outs, base runners are not hesitating to see if the ball is caught (on the fly) to avoid a double play. As a result, they normally advance the extra base. The batter is credited with advancing a base runner from first base to home plate for a double based on the same theory.

Evaluation of the batter In evaluating a batter according to my system, two evaluation factors are involved, namely, the batters times at bat represented by the symbol AB. and the batters earned runs represented by the symbol E.R. The A.B. represents the potential value of the batters feat based upon the game situation at the time the batter comes to bat, i.e., the potential value of the batters swinging away, attempting to bunt, being walked or hit by a pitched ball. Since the AB. according to my system takes into consideration the game situation at the time the batter bats, namely, the number of outs and the number of men on base at that particular time, it is also a measure of the batters opportunities. According to my system, the value of the AB. is based upon advancement of any or all base runners one base plus advancement of the batter one base if he is swinging away at the pitch. More specifically, the value of the AB. is determined by the following considerations:

(1) When there is none or one(1) out, the AB. for the various acts which the batter may accomplish is determined as follows:

(a) Where the batter attempts to bunt and is retired or reaches base safely, the AB. is the equivalent of the value of a successful sacrifice in the particular game situation existing at that time.

(b) Where the batter walks or is hit by a pitched ball, the AB. is the equivalent of the value of a walk in the particular game situation existing at that time.

(c) Where the batter swings away and is retired or reaches base safely, the AB. is the equivalent of the value of a single in the particular game situation existing at that time.

(2) When there are two (2) out, the AB. for the various acts which the batter may accomplish is determined as follows:

(a) Where the batter attempts to bunt and is retired or reaches base safely, the AB. is the equivalent of the value of an infield single in the particular game situation existing at that time.

(b) Where the batter walks or is hit by a pitch, the

AB. is the equivalent of the value of a walk in the particular game situation existing at that time.

(c) Where the batter swings away and is retired or reaches base safely, the AB. is the equivalent of the value of a single in the particular game situation existing at that time.

In order to clarify the above rules and illustrate their application during the course of a baseball game, reference is made below to various situations for which the AB. value is determined.

(1) Where there is no one on base and no outs, the AB. under this particular game situation is the same whether the batter attempts to bunt, swings away, walks or is hit by a pitched ball, i.e., the value of the AB. is 0.09 or the value of having a base runner on first base with no outs (cf. Table II above). Similarly, where there is no one on base and one out, the AB. under this game situation is the same regardless of what the batter does, i.e., the AB. is 0.06 or the value of a base runner on first base with one out (cf. Table II above).

(2) Where there is a base runner on first base and no out, the AB. under this game situation where the batter attempts to bunt is the value of a successful sacrifice, i.e., the difference in value of having a base runner on first with no out (0.09) and a base runner on second with one out (0.18) or 0.09. Where there is a base runner on first and no out, the AB. under this game'situation where the batter is either swinging away or is walked is 0.27 or the difference in value of having a base runner on first base and no out (0.09) and base runners on first and second base with no out (0.36) (cf. Table II above).

(3) Where there is a base runner on first and two out, the AB. when the batter attempts to hunt is the equivalent of the value of an infield single 0.09), i.e., 0.06 which is r the value of advancing a man from first base to second base (of. Table I above) plus 0.03 which is the value of the batter going from home plate to first base (cf. Table I above). Where there is a base runner on first base and two out, the AB. when the batter walks or is hit by the pitcher is 0.09 or the value of having advanced the base runner from first base to second base (0.06; cf. Table I above) plus 0.03 which is the value of advancing the batter from home plate to first base (cf. Table I above). Where there is a base runner on first base and two out, the AB. when the batter is swinging away at the pitch is 0.18, i.e., the value of having advanced the base runner from first base to third base (0.15) plus (0.03), the value of advancing the batter from home plate to first base (cf. Table I above); as noted above, with two outs and a man on first base, it is assumed that a base runner will advance two bases on a single.

Thus, except for the two out situation given, it will be noted that the determination of AB. is based upon advancement of each base runner one base and advancement of the batter to first base if he is swinging away at the pitch, i.e., this is the potential value of the batters time-at-bat.

The other factor, batters earned runs or E.R., used in evaluation of the batter according to my system, represents the value of the batters mechanical accomplishment in advancing base runners, if any, and himself in each appearance at bat, taking into account the particular situation existing at that time. For different game situations, the ER. is determined by the following considerations with illustrative values for various batting feats being given by way of example:

(1) Where the batter walks or is hit by a pitch, he is credited with reaching first base, advancing base runners from first to second, from second to third base or from third base to home plate and receives credit according to the game situation existing at that time (i.e., taking into account the number of outs), e.g., where there is a base runner on first base and no outs and the batter walks, the value of the ER. is 0.27, i.e., the sum of the 0.09 for advancement of the batter from home plate to first base 5 and 0.18 for advancement of base runner to second base (cf. Table I above).

(2) Where the batter hits an infield single, he is credited with reaching first base, advancing all base runners one base and is credited according to the game situation existing at that time, e.g., where there is a base runner on first base, one out and the batter hits an infield single, the value of the ER. is 0.18, i.e., the sum of 0.06 for advancement of the batter from home plate to first base and 0.12 for advancement of the base runner to second base (cf. Table I above).

(3) Where the batter hits an outfield single, he is credited with advancing himself one base (to first base), advancing all base runners one base if none or one (1) is out in the inning, advancing a base runner from first base to third base if two (2) are out in the inning and scoring any base runner from second or third base if there are two (2) outs in the inning, e.g., where there is a base runner on first base, two outs and the batter hits an outfield single, the value of the B.R. is 0.18, i.e., the

sum of 0.03 for advancement of the batter to first base plus 0.06 for advancement of the base runner from first base to second base and 0.09 for advancement of the base runner from second base to third base (cf. Table I).

(4) Where the batter hits a ground rule double, he is credited with reaching second base, advancing a base runner on first base to third base, scoring any runners on second and third bases, and is credited according to the particular game situation existing at that time, e.g., where there are base runners on second and third base, one out and the batter hits a ground rule double, the value of the ER. is 1.64, i.e., the sum of 0.18 (0.06 plus 0.12) fo advancement of the batter to second base, 0.82 (0.18 plus 0.64) for advancement of the base runner on second base to home plate and 0.64 for advancement of the base runner on third base to home plate (cf. Table I).

(5) Where a batter hits a double, he is credited with advancing himself two bases (to second base), scoring any lase runner from second or third base, advancing a runner on first base to third base if non (0) or one (1) is out in the inning and scoring a base runner on first base if there are two (2) outs in the inning, e.g., where thereis a base runner on first base, two outs and the batter doubles, the value of the B.R. is 1.06, i.e., the sum of 0.97 (0.06 plus 0.09 plus 0.82) for advancement of the base runner on first base to second base, third base and home plate and 0.09 (0.03 plus 0.06) for advancement of the batter from home plate to second base (cf. Table I).

('6) Where the batter hits a triple, he is credited with advancing himself to third base and scoring all base nunners and is credited according to the game situation existing at that time, e.g., where there is a base runner on second base, one out and the batter triples, the value of the ER. is 1.18, i.e., the sum of 0.82 (0.18 plus 0.64) for advancement of the base runner on second base to home plate and 0.36 (006 plus 0.12 plus 0.18) for advancement of the batter to third base (cf. Table I).

(7) Where a batter hits a home run, he is credited with scoring all base runners and himself, e.g., Where there is a base runner on second base, one out and the batter hits a home run, the value of the B.R. is 1.82, i.e., the sum of 1.00 for the home run and 0.82 (0.18 plus 0.64) for advancement of the base runner from second base to home plate (cf. Table I).

(8) Where a batter hits a sacrifice fly, he is credlted with scoring a base runner from third base, e.g., where this occurs with one out, the value of the ER. is 0.64, i.e., the value of advancing the base runner from third base to home plate (cf. Table I).

(9) Where a batter hits a sacrifice bunt, he is credited with advancing all base runners on first and second base, one out and the batter hits a sacrifice bunt, the value of the B.R. is 0.03, i.e., the difference in value between having runners on first and second base with one out (0.06

6 plus 0.18) and having runners on second and third base with two outs (0.09 plus 0.18) (cf. Table II).

(10) Where a batter strikes out, he loses credit in the form of an B.R. of minus value according to the game situation existing at the time, e.g., where there are base runners on first and second base, one out and the batter strikes out, the B.R. is -0.12, i.e., the amount the value of the runners on first and second has been reduced by virtue of there being two outs rather than one out (cf. Table II).

(11) Where a batter hits an infield fly or a foul fly to an infielder, he loses credit in the form of an ER. of minus value according to the game situation existing at the time, e.g., where there is a base runner on first base, two outs and the batter hits an infield fly, the ER. is 0.03, i.e., the amount the value of the runner on first base is reduced by the out (cf. Table II).

12) Where a batter hits an outfield fly, he loses credit in the form of an ER. of minus value according to the game situation existing at the time, e.g., where there are runners on first and third base, two outs and the batter hits an outfield fly, the B.R. is -0.21, i.e., the amount the value of the runners on first and third base is reduced by the out (cf. Table II).

(13) Where a batter hits an infield grounder, he loses credit in the form of an B.R. of minus value according to the game situation existing at the time, e.g., where there is a runner on second base, one out and the batter hits an infield grounder, the B.R. is 0.09, i.e., the amount the value of the runner on second base is reduced by the out (cf. Table II).

(14) Where a batter hits a ground ball to the right side of the infield with a base runner on second base and none (0) out, he receives credit for this feat which amounts to the same E.R. as for a sacrifice bunt on the theory that the batter has enabled the base runner to advance to third base with only one out from whence the runner can score on a sacrifice fly.

From the above, it can be seen that the AB. under my system measures the batters opportunities and the ER. measures the batters accomplishment, both taking into account the game situation existing at the time. The ratio of E.R./A.B. provides a measure of the percentage of accomplishment of an individual player.

Evaluation of base runners The evaluation of base runners according to my system involves measuring the players accomplishments as a base runner in everything but mechanical achievement, i.e., the base runner is not given credit for advancing onebase on a single, two bases on a double, three bases on a triple or for scoring on a home run. The base runners value, designated as B.R., is based upon the values set forth in Tables I and II taking into account the game situation at the time of a particular occurrence. For example, if a base runner on first base steals second base with one out, he receives credit for a B.R. of 0.12 since this is the difference in value between being a base runner on first base and being a base runner on second base, as determined from Table 11 under this game situation.

On the other hand, all base runners are charged when thrown out, the charge being made in accordance with the game situation existing at that time. The exceptions to this are that the base runner is not charged when he is thrown out on a force play or when he is retired on a double play where the batter is out at first base, then the runner is tagged out between first and second base. For example, where there are base runners on first base and third base and no outs in the inning and the base runner on third base is picked off base and thrown out, he is charged with a B.R. of 0.57 (minus because it is a discredit) since he has thereby lost 0.54 (the value of a base runner on third base with no outs) and has decreased by 0.03 the value of the base runner on first base.

In other words, the B.R. accorded a base runner under my system gives him recognition for superior speed and base running ability and discredits him for being slow and for poor base running ability. Thus, a base runner is given credit for all bases advanced on errors, all bases advanced on a fly or on a ground ball (except in the case of a sacrifice fly or sacrifice bunt), all stolen bases, advancing more than one base on a single and for scoring from first base on a double. A base runner is given a discredit for being thrown out while attempting to steal a base, for being picked olf base and for being thrown out during the execution of a double play, except on a force out or a double play where the batter is out at first base, then the base runner is tagged out between first and second base. The batter is given all discredit for all B.R. on all conventional double plays.

The sum of the B.R. and B.R. according to my system is a measure of a players total offensive value and accurately represents his offensive value to his team. Also, in any given inning, the sum of the B.R. and B.R. values for each man who batted for the team-at-bat is equal to the number of runs scored during that inning (with the exception of the winning run scoring in the ninth inning while leaving base runners still on base, or the same occurring in extra innings).

Evaluation of fielders Measuring the fielding ability of players involves evaluation of two factors, namely, the fielding chances of the player (designated by the symbol F.Ch.) and the bases advanced by base runners (designated by the symbol B.A.). Under my system, the fielders goal is to hold all base runners to a mere mechanical advancement, i.e., to advancement of one base on a single, two bases on a double, etc., and to keep base runners from advancing any bases on fly balls (the exception to this is that the scoring by a base runner on a sacrifice fly does not involve any discredit to a fielder). Fielders are credited with fielding chances (F.Ch.) as follows:

(1) -Fielders are credited with chances on all plays as to which the Oflicial Scorer feels the batter should have been retired, e.g., when an error is committed.

(2) Fielders are credited with chances on all occasions on which base runners have an opportunity to advance more than one base on a single or more than two bases on a double, e.g., where there is a base runner on first base, no outs and the batter doubles, the value of the F.Ch. is 0.73, i.e., the sum of 0.27 and 0.46 or the value of both men advancing an extra base on the play which good fielding would prevent.

(3) Fielders are credited with chances on all occasions where a base runner has an opportunity to advance on a ground ball, e.g., where there is a base runner on first base, no outs and the batter hits an infield grounder, the value of the F.Ch. is 0.24, i.e., the value of the batter having reached first base with no outs (0.09) plus the reduced value of the base runner on first base (0.03) plus the value of the potential advancement of the base runner to second base (0.12).

(4) Fielders are credited with chances on all occasions where a base runner has an opportunity to advance from second base to third base or from third base to home plate on a fly ball, e.g., where there is a base runner on second base, no outs and the batter hits an outfield fly for an out, the value of the F.Ch. is 0.36, i.e., 0.09 for the value the batter would have had by reaching first base safely, 0.18 for the extra value the base runner on second base would have by advancing to third base on the put out and 0.09 for the reduced value of the runner on second base.

(5) Fielders are credited with chances on all attempted stolen bases, e.g., where there is a base runner on first base and one out, the value of F.Ch. for an attempted stolen base is 0.12, i.e., the value of advancing from first base to second base with one out.

The value of F. Ch. for any given play is determined by calculating (1) the decrease in value of any base runners by reason of their failing to advance on an outfield fly or other fielding play; (2) the value the batter would have had he reached first base; and (3) the value of the potential advancement of the base runner on play, e.g., advance of runner on second base to third base on an outfield fly and advancement of runner from first base to second base on an infield grounder. For example, where there is one out, a base runner on first base and the batter flies out to right field, for the second out of the inning, the F. Ch. for the right fielder is 0.09, i.e., the sum of 0.03 representing the decrease in value of the base runner on first base and 0.06 representing the value the batter would have had if he had reached first base safely. No value is ascribed for potential advancement since runners on first base do not normally attempt to advance to second base on outfield flies. Similarly, where there are to outs, a base runner on second base and the batter hits a line drive to the first baseman for an out, the F. Ch. for the first baseman is 0.12, i.e., the sum of 0.09 representing the decrease in value of the base runner on second base (decrease from 0.09 to 0.00) and 0.03 representing the value the batter would have had if he had reached first base safely.

In evaluating fielding according to my system, the following rules are followed:

1) The pitcher gets fielding chances on strike outs and infield flies, fair or foul.

(2) The fielder making an assist gets credit for the fielding chance (F. Ch.) when two infielders are involved in a put-out.

(3) The fielder throwing to catch a runner off base receives credit for the F. Ch. in a run-down of the runner.

(4) The pivot man on a double play receives credit for the second out but there are no fielding chances credited.

(5) The fielder tagging a base runner on base receives no credit (F. Ch.) for a put-out unless he fielded the batted ball.

(6) An infielder is not credited with fielding chances for catching a fly ball unless his back is to the infield or it is a line drive.

The other factor, bases advanced by base runners or B. A., is directly related to base running ability, that is, a credit for a base runner is a discredit for a fielder, and vice versa. Under my system, the value of B. A. is charged or credited to fielders as follows:

1) All bases advanced by base runners, other than one base advanced on an outfield single, two bases advanced on a double, three bases advanced on a triple or one base advanced as a result of a walk or a batter being hit by a pitch, are charged to the player fielding, throwing or otherwise erring and allowing the base runner to advance, e.g., if a base runner on first base advances to third base on a single to left field because of a poor throw by the left fielder and with no outs in the inning, the base runner is credited with a B. R. of 0.27 (the difference in values of a base runner on second base and third base) and the left fielder is charged with a B. A. of plus 0.27.

(2) Afielder is credited (minus B. A.) whenever a base runner is thrown out while attempting to advance a base on all plays other than a force out, a batter grounding out or a double play where the batter is out at first, then the base runner is tagged out between first and second base, e.g., if a base runner on first base is thrown out attempting to steal second base with one out in the inning, the catcher is credited with a B. A. of 0.06 and the base runner is charged with a B. R. of 0.06 (i.e., the value of a base runner on first base with one out).

The ratio of F. Ch. to F. Ch. minus B. A. provides a measure of the percentage of accomplishment of each fielder.

Evaluation of pitchers The evaluation of pitching according to my system involves a determination of the number of points charged to or credited to a pitcher for each play of a game. The

number of points charged to or credited to a pitcher under various game situations is based upon a statistical evaluation of the factors which contribute to the playing of winning baseball and involves consideration of the frequency of occurrence of certain acts during the course of a baseball game. Thus, under my system, the number of points credited to or charged to a pitcher for a given play not only takes into account the batters accomplishment (as reflected by the batters E.R.) but other factors as well. For example, where a mechanical out (e.g., outfield fly) or sacrifice fly is involved, the pitchers points are equal to the batters accomplishment (E.R.) plus 0.07 plus fifty percent of the value of the lead base runner advancing one base. When batters are retired, the pitcher is credited with points in the form of a minus total and when a batter reaches base on a hit, the pitcher is charged with points in the form of a plus total. To illustrate, Where the batter hits a home run with a runner on third base and one out in the inning, the pitcher is charged with 1.64 pitching points (1.00 for the home run plus 0.64 for advancing the runner from third base to home plate). On the other hand, Where a pitcher strikes out the batter with a base runner on second base and two out, the pitcher is credited with 0.l6 points.

In determining the number of points charged to or credited to a pitcher for a given play, the following considerations apply:

(1) The batters accomplishments, including all bases mechanically advanced by both the batter and base runners are charged to the pitcher as follows:

(a) A single advances all base runners one base and puts the batter on first base.

(b) A double advances all base runners two bases and puts the batter on second base.

(c) A triple scores all base runners and puts the batter on third base.

(d) A home run scores all base runners as well as the batter.

(e) A walk or being hit by a pitch puts the batter on first base, advances all base runers one base if the bases are loaded, advances runners to second and third base from first and second base, and advances runner from first base to second base if he is the only runner.

(f) A sacrifice fly scores a runner from third base.

(g) A sacrifice bunt advances a base runner one base and givesthe pitcher credit for retiring the batter.

(2) Points are credited to a pitcher when the batter is retired or is responsible for a force out.

(3) On all plays where the base runners have a chance to advance an extra base on a base hit (e.g., from first base to third base on a single), one base on a grounder or fly ball, or one base on an attempted stolen base, the pitcher is charged according to the chances of a successful advance as computed on the basis of a statistical evaluation of approximately 10,000 baseball games.

(4) The pitcher is credited additional points on each play that would result in an out if the ball and been fielded or handled perfectly.

(5) The pitcher gets no credit for the second out on a double play. The pitcher is charged with all bases advanced by runners on a wild pitch (cf. Table I above).

During the course of a baseball game, a running total of the pitchers points is maintained. The pitchers point total plus 0.07 for each one-third inning pitched gives the pitchers earned run total (E.R.) for that particular appearance according to my system. The pitchers earned run total or E.R. determines whether he pitched winning, no decision or losing baseball. Also, under my system, the number of innings of winning, no decision or losing baseball pitched during each appearance by the pitcher, can be readily determined. These important indices of pitching performance may be determined by reference to Table III below which is based upon a statistical evaluation of the average number of earned runs allowed the winning and losing teams in approximately 10,000 major league games.

5. 18 and up.

5. 37 and up.

5. 55 and up.

. 00-3. 44 3. 45-5. 73 5. 74 and up.

10 .00-3. 55 3. 55-5. 91 5. 92 and up. 11 6.11 and up.

6. 29 and up. 6. 48 and up. 6. 66 and up.

I have found that a more accurate evaluation of a pitchers ability can be obtained by only measuring his performance up to and including the play in which a pitcher amasses a total of 2.11 pitching points. Statistical analysis shows that most pitchers have lost their effectiveness at this point or have been evaluated as pitching losing baseball and that they seldom pitch winning baseball after this point (exception is when the pitcher has a lead of five or more runs and is coasting). In other words, winning baseball tactics under my system would dictate that a pitcher be removed from the game after his point total reaches 2.11, and if he remains in the game for some other reason (e.g., Weak bullpen, worn out pitching staff, etc.), he should no longer be evaluated or receive any credit or discredit for his performance after this point.

The device of the present invention permits the system described above to be utilized in the practical evaluation of the batting, base running, pitching and fielding ability of baseball players. Referring now to the drawings, the device of the invention is shown to comprise a stationary scale or first member 1, a second movable scale or memer 3 and a third movable scale or member 5 all fastened together at the center thereof by a central support or grommet 7. Each of scales 1, 3 and 5 is circular and carties on the face side thereof certain indicia, scale 3 being intermediate scales 1 and 5 and the indicia on scales 1 and 3 being visible through openings in scales 3 and 5, respectively, to be described. As shown, circular scale 1 has a greater diameter than either of scales 3 and 5 and circular scale 3 has a smaller diameter than scales 1 and 5 so that, as fastened together with scales 3 and 5 overlying scale 1, the outer periphery of scale 1 is visible but the indicia on the face of scale 1 are not otherwise visible except through the openings in scales 3 and 5.

Movable scale 5 has various indicia thereon including a sector shaped area generally designated 9 which generally simulates a baseball diamond. Openings 11, 13, 15 and 17 in area 9 of scale 5 lie in the position of first base, second base, third base and home plate, respectively, of the diamond, and render visible thereunder the respective values given in Table I above for advancement from home plate to first base, etc. under the various game situations, these values being represented by numbers appearing on the face of scale 3. It should be noted that the numbers as shown on scales 1, 3 and 5 are whole numbers, but are intended to be fractions in accordance with my systerm as described above, by moving the decimal point two places to the left, i.e., 9 should be 0.09, 27 should be 0.27, etc. Openings 19, 21 and 23 lie between first base and second base, second base and third base and between third base and home plate, respectively, and render visible thereunder the respective values given in Table II above for base runners on first base, second base and third base, respectively, under the various game situations, these values being represented by numbers appearing on the face of scale 3. Adjacent opening 11 appears the number 3, adjacent the opening 13 appears the number 9, adjacent the opening 15 appears the number 18 and adjacent the opening 17 appears the number 100. These numbers reflect the reduction in the value of base runners on first base, second base, third base and the loss of the value of a run which may occur through poor base running, e.g., if the bases are loaded and the batter singles to left field but the base runner on second base failed to touch home plate and was declared out, this mental lapse cost his team 1.00 for a run that should have scored, a decrease of 0.18 in the value of the base runner on third base (with each out a man on third base is worth 0.18 less than before), and a decrease of 0.09 in the value of the batter that advanced to second on the throw to home plate because the out decreased his value.

Above openings 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21 and 23 in sector shaped area 9 is an arcuate slot 25 having notches 27, 29 and 31 at spaced intervals therealong under the indicia OUT, 1 OUT, and 2 OUT respectively. Slot 25 is adapted to receive for sliding movement therein a tab 33 extending upwardly from scale 3, with notches 27, 29 and 31 being adapted to lock tab 33 in position to show the number of outs or game situation at a given point of play during a baseball game. It will be noted that FIG. 1 shows tab 33 in notch 27 under the indicia 0 OUT, and that under these circumstances, openings 11, 13, and 17 show the values given under the first column in Table I above and openings 19, 21 and 23 show the values given under the first column in Table II above.

Above the indicia 0 OUT, and under the indicia PITCHERS POINTS in sector shaped area 9 are three openings 35, 37 and 39 which render visible thereunder the number of points to be charged or credited to a pitcher for a given play during the course of a game, the number of such points where there are no outs in the inning appearing in opening 35, the number of such points where there is one out in the inning appearing in opening 37 and the number of such points where there are two outs in the inning appearing in opening 39. Alongside openings 35, 37 and 39 appear the indicia HIT TO RIGHT SIDE 7 and HIT TO LEFT SIDE 7. This refers to the game situation in which there is a base runner on second base and none (0) out. If the pitcher causes the batter to hit a ground ball to the left side of the infield so that the base runner on second base cannot advance to third base from whence he could score on a sacrifice fly, he is credited with seven points (recorded as -0.07). On the other hand, if the batter hits a ground ball to the right side of the infield so that the base runner on second base is enabled to advance to third base, the pitched is charged with seven points (recorded as +0.07). Also appearing in sector shaped area 9 are indicia indicating the number of points charged to the pitcher on an attemtped steal of second base, third base or home plate with no out, one out or two out, respectively.

Under the indicia BATTERS EARNED RUNS on the face of scale 5 are three openings 41, 43 and 45 which render visible thereunder the value of the batters E.R. for a given play during the course of a game, the value where the game situation involves no outs appearing in opening 41, the value where the game situation involves one out appearing in opening 43 and the value where the game situation involves two outs appearing in opening 45. Under these openings appear the indicia HIT TO RIGHT SIDE 9 and HIT TO LEFT SIDE --9.

These refer to the game situation previously described (i.e., base runner on second base and none out) and the credit received by the batter if he hits to the right side of the infield and the discredit charged if he hits to the left side of the infield.

Under the indicia FIELDING CHANCES on the face of scale 5 are three openings 47, 49 and 51 which render visible thereunder the value of the F.Ch. credited to a fielder for a given play during the course of a game, the value where the game situation involves no outs appearing in opening 47, the value where the game situation involves one out appearing in opening 49 and the value where the game situation involves two outs appearing in opening 51. Under these openings appear the indicia HIT TO RIGHT SIDE 9 and HIT TO LEFT SIDE 36. These refer to the game situation previously described (i.e., base runner on second base and none out) and the F.Ch. credited to a fielder where the batter hits a ground ball to the left side of the infield or the right side of the infield.

Directly below central support or grommet 7 is an opening 53 which renders visible thereunder certain indicia appearing on the faces of scales 1 and 3, respectively. At the upper part of opening 53 on the face of scale 3 appear the indicia ATT. BUNT, SWING, HBP and WALK. These represent the various acts which may occur during a batters time at bat (A.B.), i.e., attempted bunt, swinging at pitches, hit by pitched ball and walk, respectively. Under each of these indicia on the face of scale 3 through an opening 55 in scale 3 appear numbers on the face of scale 1 which represent the value of the AB. for any given time-at-bat of the batter depending upon the *act which occurs during that timeat-bat under various game conditions.

Under opening 53 at the bottom of scale 5 are various indicia which represent the feats which a batter may accomplish during his time-at-bat, i.e., infield grounder, outfield fly, K (strikeout), inf. fly (infield fly), LD (line drive out), sacrifice fiy, sacrifice bunt, outfield single, walk, hit by pitch, infield single, double, triple and home run. Associated with these indicia are downward directed arrows whose function will be later explained.

Movable scale 3 has various indicia thereon and openings therein which cooperate with the indicia and openings of scales 1 and 5. In FIG. 2, movable scale 3 has arcuate slot 25 of scale 5 shown thereon in dotted lines, and tab 33 which extends up from scale 3 is shown in the 1 OUT position rather than in the 0 OUT" position as in FIG. 1, i.e., scale 3 has been moved in a clockwise direction from its position in FIG. 1 until tab 33 reached notch 29. In this position, the indicia AB. is spaced above the indicia ATT. BUNT, SWING, HBP and WALK and all of these indicia are visible through opening 53 of scale 5. In this position, opening 57 is located under the indicia AB. in scale 3 and renders visible thereunder numbers on the face of scale 1 which give the value of the AB. for any given time-atbat and under various game conditions when there is one out. To the left of opening 57 and the indicia above and below opening 57 are opening 55 and the indicia above this opening which, as previously described, are utilized to give the AB. value, when tab 33 is in the 0 OUT position. To the right of opening 57 are opening 59 and indicia below this opening which give the AB. values when tab 33 is in the 2 OUT position and scale 3 has been rotated until opening 59 and the indicia below this opening are centrally disposed below grommet 7.

The numbers appearing on the face of scale 3 are those which appear under openings 11, 13, 15 and 17 and openings 19, 21 and 23 of scale 5. Preferably, the numbers appearing under openings 11, 13, 15 and 17 are printed or shown in a different color from those under openings 19, 21 and 23 to clearly differentiate the respective values represented by these numbers.

Various other openings in scale 3 are adapted to cooperate with openings in scale to render visible values appearing on the face of scale 1. Thus, openings 61, 63 and 65 are adapted upon rotation of scale 3, to register with openings 35, 37 and 39, respectively, of scale 5 to render visible thereunder numbers on the face of scale 1 corresponding to the number of points to be charged or credited to a pitcher for a given play during the course of a game, the number of such points when there are no outs in the inning appearing under openings and 61, the number of such points where there is one out in the inriirrg appearing under openings 37 and 63 and the number of such points where there are two outs in the inning appearing under openings 39 and 65. Similarly, openings 67, 69 and 71 in. scale 3 are adapted, upon rotation of scale 3, to register with openings 41, 43 and 45, respectively, of scale 5 to render visible thereunder numbers on the face of scale 1 corresponding to the value of the batters E.R. for a given play during the course of a game, the values where the game situation involves no outs appea'ring under openings 41 and 67, the values where the game situation involves one out appearing under openings 43 and 69 and the values where the game situation involves, two outs appearing under openings 45 and 71. Likewise, openings 73, 75 and 77 in scale 3 are adapted, upon rotation of scale 3, to register with openings 47, 49 and 51, respectively, of scale 5 to render visible thereunder the values of F.Ch. credited to a fielder for a given play during the course of a game, the values where the game situation involves no outs appearing under openings 47 and 73, the values where the game situation involves one out appearing under openings 49 and 75 and the values where the game situation involves two outs appearing under openings 51 and 77.

As previously noted, circular scale 1 is of greater diameter than either scale 3 or scale 5 so that the outer periphery of scale 1 remains visible after the three scales have been fastened together. Arranged at spaced intervals around the periphery of scale 1 are certain indicia which represent various ga-me situations as indicated in the following table:

TABLE IV Game Situation Symbol l X- Runners on first and third base; no runner on second base. X-2-3. Runners on second and third base; no runner on first base. 123 Runners on first, second and third base.

Also at spaced intervals around the periphery of scale 1 are a series of notches 79, each of which is located between a duplicate set of the above symbols. It will be understood that triangles or other indicia could be employed in lieu of notches 79.

The various numbers or indicia appearing on the face of scale 1 are adapted to be made visible through the previously described openings in scales 3 and 5 upon appropriate rotation of these scales. Thus, the numbers arranged in the three innermost concentric circles about central grommet 7 on scale 1 are the numbers which represent the various values of AB. under the various game situations, the innermost concentric circle being made up of numbers which represent the various A.B. values when the game situation involves two outs in the inning and being visible through Openings 59 and 53 of scales 3 and 5, respectively, the next innermost concentric circle being made up of numbers which represent the various A.B. values when the game situation involves one out and being visible through openings 57 and 53 of scales 3 and 5, respectively, and the next innermost concentric circle being made up of numbers which represent the various A.B. values when the game situation involves no outs and being visible through openings 55 and 53 of scales 3 and 5, respectively. The next series of three concentric circles arranged about central grommet 7 on scale 1 are composed of numbers which represent the various F.Ch. values credited to fielders for the various plays which occur under various game situations, the innermost circle of this series 'being composed of numbers which represent the various F.Ch. values when the game situation involves two outs in the inning and being visible through openings 77 and 51 in scales 3 and 5, respectively, the next innermost circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the various F.Ch. values when the game situation involves one out and being visible through openings and 49 in scales 3 and 5, respectively, and the last or outermost circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the various F.Ch. values when the game situation involves no outs and being visible through openings 73 and 47in scales 3 and 5, respectively.

The next series of three concentric circles arranged about central grommet 7 on scale 1 are composed of numbers which represent the value of the ER. credited or charged to the batter for various feats accomplished under various game situations, the innermost circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the various E.R. values when the game situation involves two outs in the inning and being visible through openings 71 and 45 in scales 3 and 5, respectively, the next innermost or intermediate circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the various E.R. values when the game situation involves one out and being visible through openings 69 and 43 in scales 3 and 5, respectively, and the last or outermost circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the various E.R. values when the game situation involves no outs and being visible through. openings 67 and 41 in scales 3 and 5, respectively.

The outermost series of three concentric circles arranged about central grommet 7 on scale 1 are composed of numbers which represent the points credited or charged to the pitcher for various plays under various game situations, the innermost circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the pitchers points when the game situation involves two outs and being visible through openings 65 and 39 in scales 3 and 5, respectively, the next innermost or intermediate circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the pitchers points when the game situation involves one out and being visible through openings 63 and 37 in scales 3 and 5, respectively, and the last or outermost circle of this series being composed of numbers which represent the pitchers points when the game'situation involves no outs and being visible through openings 61 and 35 in scales 3 and 5, respectively.

Operation of the device of the invention is as follows:

The arrow under the indicia OUTFIELD SINGLE on scale 5 is first aligned with the appropriate notch 79 on the periphery of scale 1 in order to indicate the particular game situation (i.e., the number of base runners) at a given time during the course of a baseball game. Also, tab 33 is locked into one of notches 27, 29 or 31 to indicate the number of outs in the inning. With these settings, the device is in proper condition for the AB. value to be read through opening 53 of scale 5 and opening 55, 57 or 59 of scale 3 to show the value of the time-at-bat depending upon whether the batter swings, attempts to bunt, walks or is hit by a pitch upon completion of his time-at-bat. After the AB. value is determined, scales 3 and 5 are rotated together, tab 33 remaining locked in one of the notches 27, 29 or 31, until the appropriate arrow extending down from the indicia under openings 53 and 55 (in the case of the FIG. 1 position) on the face of scale 5 is aligned with the notch 79 showing the position of the base runners, the appropriate arrow being the one associated with the indicia which shows the accomplishment of the batter in this particular time-at-bat. The values for E.R., F.Ch. and pitchers points are then read from the respective openings as previously described, and recorded. The above procedure is then repeated for each batter and each play, first aligning the arrow under OUTFIELD SINGLE with appropriate notch 79 to read the AB. value for the particular game situation and then rotating scales 3 and as described to reflect the feat of the batter and to read the ER. and F.Ch. values and pitchers points from the respective openings in scale 5 as previously described.

FIG. 5 shows a form of scoring card designated 81 which may be conveniently used with the device of the invention and completed to show the actual scoring of one inning of play. In the first square, the batters name is given as Rose, Whose position is second base (represented by the number 4 in accordance with the standard system of numbering players according to their position), there are no runners on first base, second base or third base (indicated by the X appearing under 1st, 2nd and 3rd), L. Jackson is pitching for the opposition, and there are none (0) out. The batters A.B. under this game situation, by operating the device of the invention as above described, is 0.09, i.e., the value of the batter reaching first base. As indicated by the notation G 1-3, the batter grounded out, the play going from the pitcher to the first baseman. For this feat, as determined from the device of the invention, an B.R. and B.R. of 0.0 are recorded for the batter, the pitcher receives -0.07 pitching points and the pitcher (position No. 1) receives credit for 0.09 F.Ch. and 0.0 BA. The next batter on scoring card 81 is Harper, the left fielder, there are still no runners on first, second or third base, the pitcher is still L. Jackson and there is one (1) out in the inning, all as recorded on the top line of Harpers box. The batters A.B. under this game situation is 0.06, i.e., the value of the batter reaching first base with one out, and is read from the device of the invention as described above. As indicated by the notation G 6-3, the batter grounded out, the play going from the shortstop to the first baseman. For this feat, an B.R. and B.R. of 0.0 are recorded for the batter, the pitcher receives 0.07 pitching points making a total of -0.14 pitching points for the first two plays of the game, and the shortstop receives credit for 0.06 F.Ch. and 0.0 BA.

For the next batter, Pinson the center fielder, the appropriate information is recorded on the first line as previously described. The batters AB. is 0.03, i.e., the value of the batter reaching first base with two out. As indicated by the notation W, the batter walked. For this feat, the batter receives an B.R. of 0.03 (the value of reaching first base), the pitcher is charged with +0.03 pitching points making the cumulative total of '0.11 pitching points for the game and no F.Ch. are credited to any player.

On the top line of the box for the next batter, Robinson the right fielder, it is shown that Pinson is on first base and that there are two (2) outs in the inning. The batters AB. is 0.18, i.e., the value of having advanced the base runner to third base and the batter advancing to first base with two out. As indicated by the notation D 7, the batter doubled into right field scoring the base runner from first base. For this feat, the batter receives an B.R. 1.06 (i.e., the value of advancing the base runner from first base to home plate (0.97) plus the value of advancing himself from home plate to second base (0.09)), and the pitcher is charged with +1.06 pitching points making a cumulative total of +0.95 pitching points for the game.

v No other values, such as B.R. or F.Ch., are credited on the play.

In the final box of card 81, the batter is Coleman, the first baseman, who comes to bat with two (2) outs and Robinson on second base. Under this game situation, the batters AB. is 0.94, i.e., the value of the batter reaching first base and scoring the runner from second base. As shown by the notation G 6-3, the batter grounds out for the third out of the inning, the play going from the shortstop to the first baseman. For this feat, the batter is charged with an B.R. of 0.09 (for decreasing the value of the runner on second base from 0.09 to 0.0), the pitcher is credited with 0.16 pitching points making a cumulative total of +0.79 pitching points for the one inning pitched and the shortstop is credited with F.Ch. of 0.12. Thus, the half inning of play ends with the score 1-0.

The scoring is continued in the same manner throughout the entire game with the values for A.B., B.R., F.Ch. and pitching points being read directly from the device of the invention after operating the device as previously described. At the conclusion of the game, A.B., E.R., B.R., F.Ch, and BA. values for each player are totalled and recorded, and the pitching points for each pitcher are recorded. This information is recorded for each game, and permits an accurate evaluation of the batting, base running, fielding and pitching ability of the members of a team which in turn permits an evaluation of the teams run scoring ability and the approximate team potential in Wins and losses.

It will be understood that while my evaluation system as described above is based upon a unit run value of 1.00 and the values as given in Table I and II, these values could be changed without affecting the accuracy of evaluations performed with the device of the invention so long as the values employed are proportionately the same as the relative values given hereinabove.

In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other adv-antageous results attained.

What is claimed is:

1. A device for evaluating the ability of baseball players comprising a support, a first member mounted on said support and having indicia around the periphery of the face side thereof corresponding to the game situation obtaining at any given point during the course of a baseball game and indicia on the face thereof arranged in concentric circles about the center of said first member, said indicia corresponding to the potential value of the batters time-at-bat and the value of the batters, fielders, and pitchers accomplishments for a given play during the course of a baseball game, a second member mounted on said support above the face of said first member and movable With respect to said first member, said second member having indicia on the face side thereof arranged in concentric circles about the center of said second member, said indicia corresponding to the value of base runners on the bases and the value of a run under various game situations, and said second member having openings therein for cooperation with the indicia on the face of said first member whereby said openings register with said indicia to indicate the specific values representing the batters, fielders, and pitchers accomplishments for a given play, and a third member mounted on said support above the face of said second member and movable with respect to said first and second members, said third member having openings therein for cooperation with the indicia and openings of said second member and the indicia on said first member whereby the openings in said third member register with the indicia on said first and second members and the openings in said second member to indiciate the specific values representing the batters, fielders, and pitchers accomplishments for a given play, the value of base runners on the bases and the value of a run under various game situations, said third member having indicia on the face side thereof adjacent the openings therein explanatory of the values appearing in said openings and representing the value of the batters, fielders, and pitchers accomplishments for a given play and the number of outs in an inning during the course of a baseball game and indicia explanatory of the indicia around the periphery of said first member to indicate certain of said values before and after a given play has been completed.

2. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said second member has a tab extending up therefrom and said third member has an arcuate slot therein adapted to receive said tab for sliding movement, the position of said tab indicating the number of outs in an inning during the course of a baseball game, said arcuate slot being positioned adjacent the indicia on said third member representing the number of outs in an inning during the course of a baseball game.

3. A device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said slot is provided with three notches therein at spaced intervals, said notches being adapted to lock said tab in position to indicate the number of outs in an inning during the course of a baseball game.

4. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the openings in said second member are so positioned as to register with certain of the openings in said third member upon movement of said third member relative to said second member to make visible therethrough indicia on the face of said first member representing the specific values for 18 the batters, fielders, and pitchers accomplishments for a given play.

5. A device as set forth in claim 1 wherein the indicia around the periphery of said first member indiciate the number and identity of bases on which there are base runners at a particular time during the course of a baseball game.

References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,801,225 4/1931 Craven 235-88 2,934,264 4/1960 Miller 23588 3,058,653 10/1962 Des Granges 235-88 3,071,322 1/1963 Harris 23588 3,2 10,866 10/1965 Brunnelle 23588 RICHARD B. WILKINSON, Primary Examiner. S. A. WAL, Assistant Examiner. 

